In what has become a regular occurrence for the PSL (Pakistan Super League), star all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has reportedly opted out of the PSL 2026. The Sri Lanka captain was picked by Lahore Qalandars for the upcoming PSL season, but after he opted out, he has been signed by Rajasthan Royals as the replacement signing for Sam Curran.ย
Shanaka had remained unsold at the Abu Dhabi mini-auction last December. He was signed by Qalandars for PKR 75 lakh, but he will now represent Rajasthan Royals in the biggest franchise cricket league in the world.
A report by Cricbuzz stated that Royals have signed Shanaka for the IPL 2026 season. A top RR official confirmed the same as well. Curran is expected to miss the entire season for RR with a suspected groin injury. In his absence, Shanaka will hope to put in his best performances and propel RR towards their second IPL title.ย
Notably, Shanaka becomes the second player to pull out of the PSL after Blessing Muzarbani, who pulled out of his contract with Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders.ย
RR to kick off IPL season against CSK
Speaking of Rajasthan Royals, the side will kick off their IPL season by taking on five-time champions Chennai Super Kings. The two sides will take on each other at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on March 30.ย
The two sides were the two underperforming sides in the tournament in the IPL 2025, and with a revamped squad this time around, both Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals will hope for good showings and will aim to qualify for the tournament knockouts this time around as the IPL 2026 season kicks off on March 28.ย
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